Give Your Cardio Routine A Lift

If you're putting in miles of running, cycling and swimming to boost aerobic capacity and promote cardiovascular health, good for you. But a study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research suggests that unique cardio benefits can be found in the weight room. Resistance training produces greater increases of blood flow to the arms and legs, and a longer-lasting decrease in blood pressure post-workout.

True Strength Moment: A lot of endurance athletes find free weights and weight machines intimidating. Plenty of weight lifters can't run 3 miles. This study shows that balancing your exercise program with elements of both resistance and endurance work can help you reap greater benefits than you would focusing on just one type of physical challenge.